<p>Judge won't dismiss puppy cruelty charges</p><p>FAYETTEVILLE - A judge has refused to dismiss animal cruelty charges against a former Fayetteville police officer who is accused of burying eight puppies alive.</p><p>Cumberland County Superior Court Judge Jack Thompson rejected a request to drop the eight felony charges against John Leggett. The former officer was accused of burying the puppies in last September.</p><p>Defense lawyer Bruce Cunningham said he will appeal the ruling. Cunningham said Leggett already has paid an $800 civil penalty for violating an animal cruelty ordinance.</p><p>- The Associated Press</p>